SQF Certification

WHAT IS SQF CERTIFICATION?

SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification is a globally recognized program that ensures businesses implement effective food safety and quality management systems, meeting both regulatory and customer requirements. It is part of the GFSI benchmarked standards, helping companies produce safe food across the supply chain while demonstrating their commitment to food safety and quality.

SQF CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS:

Understanding the different SQF certification programs is crucial for businesses to choose the one that aligns best with their needs and goals. The tiered structure of the SQF certification allows for flexibility and a customized approach to food safety management.

PROGRAM	TARGET AUDIENCE	FOCUS	KEY FEATURES
SQF FOOD SAFETY PROGRAM	Food manufacturers, primary producers	Food safety	Ensures safe food production at all levels of the supply chain. Covers HACCP and risk management.
SQF QUALITY PROGRAM	Businesses seeking to enhance product quality	Product quality beyond safety	Focuses on improving product quality, consistency, and customer satisfaction beyond safety.
SQF FUNDAMENTALS PROGRAM	Small to medium-sized businesses	Basic food safety preparation	Helps small businesses start their food safety journey and prepare for full SQF certification.
SQF ETHICAL SOURCING PROGRAM	Companies focusing on ethical practices	Social, environmental, and governance standards	Ensures compliance with ethical sourcing, covering social responsibility and sustainability.
SQF RETAIL PROGRAMS	Food retail and wholesale distribution companies	Retail food safety	Ensures food safety for retail and wholesale sectors, helping secure food safety from suppliers to consumers.

SQF CODES AND THE IMPORTANCE:

The SQF Code is the starting point for getting SQF certification. It lays out a detailed plan that shows how to create, put into action, and keep a strong food safety management system in place. The SQF Code includes clear guidelines and requirements that are customized for different areas of the food industry. This means it’s relevant and useful for a variety of sectors, making it easier for producers to ensure food safety in their specific situations.

FOOD SAFETY CODE: PRIMARY PLANT PRODUCTION

Growing and harvesting fresh produce and sprouted seeds indoors
Growing and producing fresh produce and nuts
Packhouse operations for fresh produce, grain, and nuts
Broad-acre agricultural operations

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SQF-Primary-Animal-Production-2020-Edition-9-FINAL

FOOD SAFETY CODE: PRIMARY ANIMAL PRODUCTION

Raising livestock for meat, milk, and eggs
Breeding and hatching poultry and other animals
Fishing, aquaculture, and seafood farming
Managing feed and water systems for animals

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FOOD SAFETY CODE: AQUACULTURE

Raising fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants in controlled environments
Managing water quality and feeding systems for aquatic species
Harvesting and processing farmed seafood products
Ensuring biosecurity and disease prevention in aquaculture operations

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FOOD SAFETY CODE: FOOD MANUFACTURING

Processing raw materials into finished food products
Packaging and labeling of processed foods
Managing food safety hazards during production
Ensuring sanitation and hygiene in manufacturing facilities

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FOOD SAFETY CODE: ANIMAL PRODUCT MANUFACTURING

Processing meat, dairy, and egg products
Ensuring proper handling and storage of animal products
Managing food safety risks during production
Packaging and labeling of animal-based products

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FOOD SAFETY CODE: DIETARY SUPPLEMENT MANUFACTURING

Formulating and processing dietary supplements from raw ingredients
Ensuring quality control and safety during production
Packaging and labeling dietary supplements for consumer use
Managing compliance with regulatory standards for supplements

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FOOD SAFETY CODE: PET FOOD MANUFACTURING

Formulating and processing pet food from quality ingredients
Ensuring safety and nutritional standards during production
Packaging and labeling pet food products for consumer sale
Managing quality control and compliance with regulatory requirements

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FOOD SAFETY CODE: ANIMAL FEED MANUFACTURING

Formulating and processing animal feed from raw materials
Ensuring safety and nutritional standards during production
Packaging and labeling feed products for livestock and pets
Managing compliance with regulatory requirements and quality control

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FOOD SAFETY CODE: STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION

Storing food products under appropriate temperature and humidity conditions
Managing inventory to prevent spoilage and contamination
Packaging and labeling products for safe transport
Ensuring compliance with transportation safety regulations

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FOOD SAFETY CODE: MANUFACTURING OF FOOD PACKAGING

Producing food-grade packaging materials that ensure safety and compliance
Ensuring hygiene and sanitation during the manufacturing process
Testing packaging for chemical and physical safety
Managing labeling and traceability of packaging materials

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ASI: SQF CERTIFICATION SERVICES

ASI Food Safety can support in preparation for SQF certification in several ways:

Expert Guidance They provide expert consultation and guidance on understanding SQF requirements specific to your industry sector, helping you comprehend the standards and necessary steps.

Gap Analysis ASI Food Safety conducts a thorough gap analysis of your current food safety management system against SQF standards, identifying areas needing improvement.

Customized Solutions They offer tailored strategies and solutions to align your existing procedures, policies, and protocols with SQF standards.

Training Services ASI Food Safety provides training and educational resources for your team, ensuring they understand and implement necessary changes effectively.

Documentation Support Assistance in developing required documentation and records aligned with SQF standards, ensuring completeness and accuracy.

Pre-assessment Support ASI can conduct mock audits or pre-assessments to gauge readiness for the official SQF certification audit, identifying any remaining gaps for correction beforehand.

THE SQF PROCESSS

The process of obtaining Safe Quality Food (SQF) certification typically involves several key steps:

Preparation

Download, your FOOD SAFETY CODE below, and understand SQF requirements

Development

Create and implement procedures meeting SQF standards

PRE-ASSESSMENT

Conduct a mock audit and review documentation

OFFICIAL AUDIT

Undergo certification audit by ASI

SQF CERTIFICATION PROCESS

Achieving SQF certification is a structured process that helps businesses establish and maintain high food safety standards. Here’s a breakdown of the key steps involved:

PREPARATION
Start by familiarizing yourself with the SQF Code and its specific requirements relevant to your sector in the food industry. This step involves developing detailed food safety and quality plans that identify potential hazards and establish effective control measures.
IMPLEMENTATION
Once your plans are in place, it’s time to put them into action. Implement the practices and procedures across your operations, ensuring that all employees are trained and understand their roles in upholding food safety. This step is crucial for turning your theoretical plans into practical actions.
AUDIT
The next step is to undergo a comprehensive audit by an accredited third-party certifier. This audit assesses your compliance with the SQF Code and evaluates the effectiveness of your food safety and quality plans, verifying that the established practices are consistently followed.
CERTIFICATION AND ONGOING COMMITMENT
Upon successful completion of the audit, you will receive your SQF certification, which is valid for one year. To maintain this certification, you must participate in annual audits and re-certification processes, demonstrating your continuous commitment to food safety. The SQF program encourages ongoing improvement, urging businesses to constantly seek ways to enhance their food safety management systems.

FAQs ABOUT SQF CERTIFICATION

What is SQF certification?

SQF (Safe Quality Food) certification is a rigorous and globally recognized food safety and quality management system certification. It ensures that products are produced, processed, prepared, and handled according to the highest standards of safety and quality.

Why should my business get SQF certified?

SQF certification demonstrates your commitment to food safety and quality, enhancing consumer confidence in your products. It also opens doors to new markets, as many retailers and buyers require SQF certification from their suppliers.

How long does it take to become SQF certified?

The time to achieve SQF certification varies based on factors such as your current food safety practices, size of your operation, and readiness for the certification process. Typically, it can take several months to a year to implement the necessary changes and complete the certification process.

What is involved in the SQF certification process?

The process includes several key steps:
Preparation: Assessing your current practices against SQF requirements.
Implementation: Making necessary improvements and documenting procedures.
Audit: A third-party certification body conducts an on-site audit to evaluate compliance with SQF standards.
Certification: Upon successful completion of the audit, you receive SQF certification.

How often is SQF certification required?

SQF certification is typically valid for one year. Annual audits are required to maintain certification, ensuring ongoing compliance with SQF standards.

Can SQF certification be integrated with other management systems?

Yes, SQF certification can be integrated with other management systems, such as ISO 9001 (Quality Management) or ISO 22000 (Food Safety Management), to streamline processes and enhance overall efficiency.

How much does SQF certification cost?

The cost of SQF certification varies depending on factors such as the size of your operation, complexity of processes, and location. It includes costs for initial assessment, implementation support, audit fees, and ongoing maintenance.

What are the benefits of partnering with a certification body for SQF certification?

Working with a certification body ensures that your certification process is conducted impartially and professionally. Certification bodies provide expertise, guidance, and support throughout the certification journey, helping you achieve and maintain SQF certification efficiently.

How can I prepare for an SQF audit?

Preparing for an SQF audit involves thorough documentation of procedures, training of personnel, and conducting internal audits to identify and correct any non-conformities. Your certification body can provide specific guidance and resources to help you prepare effectively.

THE ASI DIFFERENCE

ASI doesn't just provide services; we create partnerships. We're committed to your success and your journey towards SQF certification. With ASI by your side, you're not just meeting a certification standard; you're embracing a culture of excellence.

Make the choice that reflects your commitment to food safety and quality. Choose ASI as your trusted partner on the road to SQF certification. Your success is our mission, and together, we'll build a safer, more prosperous food future.

WHAT IS SQF CERTIFICATION?

GET YOUR SQF CERTIFICATION QUOTE TODAY

SQF AUDITS AND SQF CERTIFICATION

SQF CERTIFICATION PROGRAMS:

SQF CODES AND THE IMPORTANCE:

FOOD SAFETY CODE: PRIMARY PLANT PRODUCTION

FOOD SAFETY CODE: PRIMARY ANIMAL PRODUCTION

FOOD SAFETY CODE: AQUACULTURE

FOOD SAFETY CODE: FOOD MANUFACTURING

FOOD SAFETY CODE: ANIMAL PRODUCT MANUFACTURING

FOOD SAFETY CODE: DIETARY SUPPLEMENT MANUFACTURING

FOOD SAFETY CODE: PET FOOD MANUFACTURING

FOOD SAFETY CODE: ANIMAL FEED MANUFACTURING

FOOD SAFETY CODE: STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION

FOOD SAFETY CODE: MANUFACTURING OF FOOD PACKAGING

ASI: SQF CERTIFICATION SERVICES

THE SQF PROCESSS

SQF CERTIFICATION PROCESS

PREPARATION

IMPLEMENTATION

AUDIT

CERTIFICATION AND ONGOING COMMITMENT

FAQs ABOUT SQF CERTIFICATION

THE ASI DIFFERENCE